Winter storms can take a serious toll on your university’s facilities, particularly the roof system. When the snow and ice finally thaw, your facilities teams must act quickly to identify and address any damage before it leads to more costly repairs. Nothing like the early Spring flowers to remind you Commencement is right around the corner.
As experts in building envelope consulting, we’ve worked with universities to diagnose and resolve roof leaks effectively. Here’s what your facilities team needs to know to mitigate the risks associated with winter roof damage.
Step One: Conduct a Thorough Roof Walk
Once the weather permits, have your maintenance team or a qualified consultant (i.e. Etica Group) perform a detailed roof inspection. Look for visible signs of damage, including:
Ponding water or ice dams
Missing or displaced flashing
Membrane punctures or tears
Debris buildup that could conceal damage
Water stains on the interior ceilings or walls
If any signs of water intrusion are present, immediate action is necessary. Delaying repairs can lead to widespread damage, including mold growth, compromised structural integrity and reduced insulation effectiveness.
Effective Repairs: Beyond Surface Patching
A common mistake in roof leak repair is applying an exterior patch without addressing the underlying issue. To ensure long-term performance, any wet materials within the roof system must be removed and replaced. Trapped moisture not only accelerates deterioration but also reduces the insulation’s R-value, leading to higher energy costs and a shortened roof lifespan.
Why a Holistic Approach Matters
Leak sources are often more complex than they appear. While a leak may manifest in one location, the actual point of failure could be elsewhere due to water migration within the building envelope. This is why we strongly recommend engaging a building envelope consultant rather than relying solely on a general roofer. Our expertise ensures a comprehensive evaluation, preventing unnecessary repairs that fail to address the root cause.
What to Do When You See Interior Water Damage
If you notice water stains or active leaks inside the building, don’t just apply a temporary fix—call Sean Mettert immediately. Leak investigations are most effective when performed systematically under controlled conditions. While rainfall can highlight active leaks, a controlled water test allows us to isolate the source and develop an accurate repair strategy. By recreating conditions using a methodical approach, we can precisely pinpoint failure points and recommend targeted solutions.
Selecting the Right Professional
Not all roofing contractors or masons have the expertise required for a comprehensive leak investigation. If a contractor suggests patching random spots or dismisses the issue without a clear resolution, it may be time to bring in a specialist. Our team specializes in diagnosing complex building envelope issues, ensuring that repairs address the true source of the problem rather than just the symptoms.
Common Causes of Roof Leaks
The origin of a roof leak often depends on the construction quality of the building. Facilities with well-executed masonry work tend to have fewer issues, while buildings constructed with speed as a priority may experience long-term water infiltration problems.
Additionally, buildings with additions are particularly susceptible to leaks if the integration between the old and new structures wasn’t properly executed. These transition points should be inspected carefully for deficiencies in flashing, sealants, and drainage systems.
Trust the Experts in Building Envelope Consulting
Winter storm damage requires prompt and knowledgeable intervention. By partnering with a trusted building envelope consultant, your university can protect its facilities from costly water damage and extend the life of its roofing system. If your team suspects roof damage following a winter storm, don’t wait—contact us today for a thorough assessment and expert recommendations.